1 - Is there any software out there such as a media player or image viewer (jpegs, etc.)?

2 - Are there many vendors/websites still developing/supporting the Newton?

3 - How well does Web Browsing work? What type of modem is required?

4 - Does email work well with a modem?

5 - Is AvantGO compatible with Newton (they don't list it, but say that other hardware may be compatible, but that it "hasn't been tested.")? I'm interested in downloading updated maps (MapQuest), news, sports, etc...

6 - Is infrared "beaming" (irda?) compatible with Palm devices (I assume not, but it would be great)?

7 - Was the 120 smaller than the 200x? What's the difference between the MP2000 and MP2001?

8 - How much memory does the MP2000 have?

9 - What kind of cool PC card plug-in accessories are available?

10 - What's the best website for Newton history/software/support?

*** By the way, having test-driven the Newton MP2000 for a few days, I am totally blown-away by the hand-writing software. It is UNPARALLELED in it's speed and accuracy. Truth be told, you can't really compare it's full-sentence (cursive btw) "handwriting" to what more-or-less equates to hen-pecking on the Palm/Pocket PC. I CAN'T BELIEVE THAT APPLE KILLED IT! The least that Jobs could have done was sold the company - it still would've been a player! Typical Apple marketing disaster!

Sorry for all the questions - thanks for your help!

Wesley Walls
future Newton MP2000 owner?

Being the owner of an upgraded MP2000 (a regular MP2000 with the RAM of a 2100), I can try to answer a few of these. Back me up, anyone, if I get anything wrong.

1. I believe that the shareware web browser Newt's Cape will handle picture formats. As for video, there are a few commercials/clips that run on stand alone movie players. Sound wise, there is a MOD player and a few people interested in writing an mp3 player (we'll see).

2. YES!!! There are a lot of developers still supporting the Newton and websites dedicated to the Newton. I list some later in response to another question of yours.

3. It's pretty good. Granted it'll be slower than your desktop, but I have not had any major problems. I use NetHopper (I've heard Newt's Cape is great -- and its still supported) and I can do a lot of stuff with it.

4. Yes!!! I use SimpleMail from Simon Bell and email works wonderfully. I use my Newton for mail when I am home from school.

5. I don't think so. If you want maps, there are far more sophisticated programs for map making than Avant Go can offer. Otherwise you can always upload text, make NewtonBooks, etc.

6. Yes! With the help of a free extension, Newtons can talk to Palms.

7. The 120 was slightly smaller than the 2x00s. The difference between the 2000 and the 2100 is the RAM. The 2000s have just under 1 MB for user RAM (i.e. applications that are running, etc.). The 2100s have 4 MB, a great advantage for running multiple apps, web browsing, etc. If you get a 2000 and want the upgrade later, Dr. Newton still does those upgrades. All I have heard about him is rave reviews.

8. See above.

9. Wow, you name it. I have heard of everything from the usual modems and ethernet cards to GPS receivers, VGA-out cards (for presentations), wireless modems (I think), and people are trying to get wireless LAN cards to work.

10. That's a tough question. Off the top of my head, I would recommend www.chuma.org/newton , www.unna.org , www.info-newt.com , members.aol.com/thisoldnewt/index2.html , and www.planetnewton.com . All these sites are great and they have links to other sites in the Newton community.

Another note: I would recommend joining the NewtonTalk mailing list at Planet Newton. There is a helpful group of people that can offer hints, tips, and support.

If I were you, I would definitely get a Newton ASAP. I started with a 130 and have worked my way through to a 2000 and finally my uMP2000. Every one has blown my mind. The Newton has to be the most useful, capable, and intuitive PDA out there. It does it all. And the 2x00s are so fast that I am able to take notes in class and it doesn't miss a word. I hope that you are able to find a Newton (try searching for the Newton Classifieds -- they are a nice alternative to eBay). Good luck!

[This message has been edited by TimmyDee51 (edited 03-11-2001).]

[This message has been edited by TimmyDee51 (edited 03-11-2001).]